121 S 2nd Street, Wilmington, NC 28401

Description

Iconic Antebellum Elegance: The Ballard-Potter-Bellamy House is an architectural gem in the crown of one of the nation's earliest historic districts. Painterly light spills into its bright interiors through 31 oversize windows dating from 1844. Rip sawn heart pine floors, 12-ft ceilings, and carved marble fireplaces appoint oversize parlors with walk out sash windows wrapped by 3 generous porches. The upstairs step-out roof overlooks the skyline of downtown serving as gateway to the idyllic tree-lined Historic District w/breathtaking sunset views over the Cape Fear. Award winning Restaurants, Music Venues, River Walk, Water Tours and more are steps from the front door. Charming horse drawn carriage tours, Historic Foundation, Historical Society, Children's Museum and Community Art Center all grace the block. Authentic restoration includes custom Cherrywood Japanese soaking tub, glass enclosed walk in shower and custom historic scullery kitchen featuring luxury cooking appliances by Fulgor Milano of Italy, Fisher Paykel Dish/Cooling drawers and Liebherr refrigeration. Separate access porch entry allows for secure deliveries while the large eat-in kitchen space remains highly customizable. Unexpected storage delights in the laundry/linen room, deep closets and large attic- also keepsake for two centuries of architectural antiques for future restoration. An oval sculpted formal garden opens into terraces on the over quarter acre lot with an underground rainwater cistern fed by rooftop French gutters. Recent modernizations include well pump and irrigation controller for garden well, tankless hot water heater, recessed closet fans, silent bath fans, and refurbished hardware including keys for the antebellum era locks. While the original horse carriage stoop remains, two parking spaces have been added to the gated grounds for modern convenience. There is a reason why this Southern Living featured home has remained one of Wilmington's most celebrated homes since 1844.